President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to defeating terrorism and strengthening diplomatic ties with Nigeria’s global partners, in what appeared to be his first direct public comment on the recent US designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC). Speaking before the Federal Executive Council (FEC) entered a closed-door session on Thursday, the President declared: “We are engaging the world diplomatically, and we assure all of you that we will defeat terrorism. The task ahead is to move forward with clarity of purpose guided by the Renewed Hope agenda to build a prosperous Nigeria.”
The remarks were made at the Council Chamber of the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja, during the council’s first gathering since July. The President’s comments came just days after US President Donald Trump re-designated Nigeria as a ‘Country of Particular Concern’ for alleged severe violations of religious freedom, a move the Nigerian government has previously described as a misrepresentation of the nation’s security situation.
Addressing the diplomatic tensions, President Tinubu stated that his government is actively engaging the international community to advance security, stability, and economic growth. “Despite political headwinds and fears, we will continue to engage with our partners,” he assured. He cited the recent successful $2.3 billion Eurobond, which was oversubscribed, as a “sign of confidence in our economy” and a clear indication of international trust despite the diplomatic pressures.
The President maintained a resolute posture, assuring Nigerians that the country remains united in its pursuit of peace and prosperity. He said: “The task ahead is immense, but we are resolved to move forward with unity and purpose.” Mr Tinubu also commended members of his cabinet for their commitment to his Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasising the critical need for unity and focus in the implementation of government reforms.
